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The Schwager/Oliver Quintet: Senza Reza
ByThe album represents the producers' desire to showcase the talents and musicianship of an all-star quintet led by guitarist Reg Schwager and saxophonist Ryan Oliver. The group also consist of keyboardist Nick Peck, bassist Rene Worst and drummer Ernesto Cerviniall capturing a special chemistry well demonstrated in their performance of the innovative compositions documented here.
Of the ten dynamic tracks of traditional straight-ahead jazz, five are original compositions from members of the band. The music kicks off with a superb version of the British composer Neil Grant Richardson's "Another Happening," one of the finest pieces of the set, followed by Schwager's own "Rushbrooke" featuring the guitarist, saxophonist and keyboardist on excellent solo moments. Another exceptional track presented here is jazz pianist and former Jazz Messenger Ronnie Matthews' "The Orient."
"Tender Love" describes precisely the warm and tender sounds of Oliver's flute, accompanyied by mellow bass lines and dextrous play by the leader on guitar. "Squagels," from drummer Cervini, is yet another exciting piece of music featuring the drummer and guitarist on tap and later joined by Oliver in a terrific number and keeper of the set. Oliver's own "Blues for Josie Rose" is featured well here, enjoying a studio version of eight minutes and a live version lasting over twelve-minutes.
The defining track may well be "The Cat from Katmandu," a melodic and up-tempo number featuring the group at their best. Sensa Resa is an amazing album by an obviously amazing group of players from Canada, where the jazz vibes are as alive and thoroughly as exciting as anywhere on the planet.
Track Listing
Another Happening; Rushbrooke; 4JT; The Orient; Tender Love; Blues for Josie Rose; Black Horse; Squagels; The Cat from Katmandu; Blues for Josie Rose (Live).
Personnel
Reg Schwager
guitarRyan Oliver
saxophone, tenorNick Peck
keyboardsRene Worst
bass, acousticErnesto Cervini
drumsAlbum information
Title: Senza Reza | Year Released: 2023 | Record Label: Celler Live
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The Schwager/Oliver Quintet
Album Review
Edward Blanco
Senza Reza
Celler Live
Oscar Petersen
Maynard Ferguson
Gill Evans
Rob McConnell
Diana Krall
Michael Buble'
Reg Schwager
Ryan Oliver
Nick Peck
Rene Worst
Ernesto Cervini
Ronnie Matthews